Customer experience Easy Rider tricycle - Jacques Longueville

“Several years ago, I suffered a cerebral thrombosis, which meant I could no longer walk. After a long period of rehabilitation, my balance unfortunately did not fully recover. As a result, cycling became too dangerous. In particular, I could no longer get on and off safely or set off steadily afterwards.

Many years ago, I bought a tricycle for my mother. I also rode it once myself, but I almost immediately rode into the verge. So I knew what to expect. That is why I deliberately chose a recumbent tricycle: the Easy Rider.

When riding this bike, I do not tend to countersteer into corners. I sit low down, comfortably and safely. I can simply stop for a moment along the way to calmly look around me and then continue cycling safely.”

“Traffic has become considerably busier in recent years. You see many fast cargo bikes, speed pedelecs and electric scooters. As an older person, you think twice before mixing with all of that.

That is why good lighting, indicators and two large mirrors were important to me. Those accessories are indispensable. The mirrors give me a very good view of what is happening around me, but in my opinion the rear light and the visibility of the indicators could still be improved.”

Jacques had a lockable case fitted to the luggage carrier to provide extra storage space. He also chose platform pedals.

“I found the standard pedals too risky. With the platform pedals with anti-slip pins, my shoes stay firmly in place.”

Stability and comfort

“The stability of the bike is a major advantage, both at higher speeds and when cornering. The bike does not have self-stabilising steering, so I always have to hold the handlebars firmly. I cannot cycle with one hand on the handlebars.

The turning circle is very small. In practice, that is a major advantage. The brakes on the rear wheels also work excellently. The reverse function is a useful extra, and I always use the start assistance when setting off from an intersection.

I find the suspension quite stiff. As the cycle paths are not always in good condition, I put a thick cushion on the seat. It is very comfortable. I try to avoid roads with a lot of cobblestones, because they are quite uncomfortable on the bike.”

“The Enviolo gearing works well, but for me it does not offer any clear advantage over a standard Shimano gear system. I find it particularly inconvenient that the gearing remains in the highest setting when the bike is stationary. When I want to set off again, I cannot immediately apply enough force and find it difficult to get moving.

Even in setting 1, the pedal assistance is powerful enough for me. I hardly ever use settings 2 and 3. I do use the start assistance when setting off from an intersection. It makes setting off easier.”

“My dealer in the Netherlands provides me with good support. Recently, there was a problem with the gearing. The dealer is doing their best to have it resolved under warranty. I appreciate that.

Overall, I am very satisfied with the bike. When I consider how well the Easy Rider meets my expectations, I would give it almost a 10. For its performance with the larger battery, I would give it a 9. In terms of ease of use, I still see room for improvement regarding the stiff suspension, the battery, the bike’s weight, the indicators and the handlebars.”

Out and about together again

“My wife is happy that I am active again and that I have made mental progress. I feel much more complete again. Fifteen years ago, I used to go on rides on my motorbike. Now I can relive those experiences on the Easy Rider tricycle.

Although other road users may see me as someone with a disability, I feel like a king. I am proud of my bike and I want everyone to know it!”

Jacques Longueville - Bruges, Belgium
Bike: Easy Rider tricycle

TricyclesEasy RiderPedal assistDirection indicatorsPlatform pedal